Michael Strahan’s Departure from “Live With Kelly and Michael”
It’s been six years since Michael Strahan left Live With Kelly and Michael for Good Morning America. His departure was messy—Strahan left three months earlier than planned. Kelly Ripa, blindsided by the news, took a week off from the show afterward.
Ripa’s Response
When Ripa returned, she vaguely explained her absence, stating, “I needed a couple of days to gather my thoughts; after 26 years with this company, I earned the right.” She added that the situation sparked a broader conversation about communication, respect, and consideration in the workplace, and that apologies had been made.
Strahan and Ripa’s Relationship Today
Although Strahan apologized for his early exit, his relationship with Ripa has never been the same. Recently, he revealed more about their strained friendship. In an interview with Time, Strahan admitted that they no longer speak. “I learned you can’t convince people to like you,” he said. “I haven’t spoken to her in a long time.”
Current Career Paths
Today, both are on separate morning shows. Ripa co-hosts Live with Kelly and Ryan (since 2017, with Ryan Seacrest), while Strahan hosts the third hour of Good Morning America with Sara Haines.
Behind the Scenes Tension
In a past interview with Deadline, Strahan suggested there were issues with Ripa behind the scenes that were beyond his control. He clarified, “I remained the same person I was from Day 1. When it was time to go, it was time to go. Certain things just caught up.”
Conclusion
Strahan and Ripa’s dynamic has clearly shifted. Which show do you prefer: Live with Kelly and Ryan or Good Morning America? Did you know their relationship had such a fallout?